As the summer months approach, it is essential to take all the necessary precautions to protect yourself from the sun’s damaging UV rays. Applying sunscreen correctly is one of the most important steps to take in order to protect your skin from the sun’s harsh rays. In this blog post, we will discuss the dos and don’ts of applying sunscreen for maximum protection. We will explore the best practices for applying sunscreen, from the amount to use to the importance of reapplying throughout the day. Read on to learn more about the best ways to apply sunscreen for maximum protection.
Do: Apply sunscreen before you go outside
Make sure to apply your sunscreen at least 15 minutes before heading outside. This gives the product time to fully absorb into your skin and provide optimal protection. Don’t wait until you’re already in the sun to apply your sunscreen. Prevention is key!
Do: Apply sunscreen to all exposed skin
Make sure to cover all areas that will be exposed to the sun, including your face, ears, neck, arms, and legs. Don’t forget any areas that are often missed, such as the tops of your feet or behind your knees. And if you’re wearing a swimsuit, be sure to apply sunscreen to any areas not covered by it. The more skin you cover with sunscreen, the better protected you will be.
Do: Use enough sunscreen
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It’s important to use enough sunscreen to get the full SPF protection listed on the bottle. Don’t skimp on the amount, and be sure to cover all exposed skin thoroughly. A good rule of thumb is to use about one ounce, or enough to fill a shot glass, for your entire body.
Do: Reapply sunscreen every two hours
It’s important to reapply sunscreen every two hours to maintain maximum protection against harmful UV rays. Sunscreen can wear off over time, especially if you’re sweating or swimming, so make sure to set a reminder to reapply throughout the day.
Do: Check the expiration date
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Always make sure to check the expiration date on your sunscreen before using it. Expired sunscreen may not offer the same level of protection and can even cause skin irritation or breakouts. If your sunscreen has passed its expiration date, it’s time to invest in a new bottle.
Do: Wear protective clothing
Protective clothing can provide an additional layer of defense against harmful UV rays. Consider wearing long-sleeved shirts, pants, and wide-brimmed hats when you’re out in the sun. This will not only protect your skin from the sun but also keep you cool and comfortable. Don’t forget to pair your outfit with a pair of sunglasses for added protection to your eyes.
Don’t: Forget to apply sunscreen to your lips
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When it comes to sun protection, many people often forget to protect their lips. However, the skin on the lips is just as vulnerable to sun damage as the rest of your skin. Lips have thinner skin and lack melanin, which means they are more susceptible to sunburn, dryness, and even skin cancer.
Don’t: Use expired sunscreen
Expired sunscreen loses its effectiveness and may not protect you as it should. Be sure to check the expiration date before using and discard any sunscreen that has expired. Sunscreen that is stored improperly or exposed to extreme temperatures can also degrade and lose effectiveness, so make sure to store it in a cool, dry place. Using expired or improperly stored sunscreen can leave you vulnerable to sun damage, so always check the expiration date and store your sunscreen properly.
Don’t: Skip the sunscreen on cloudy days
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Even on cloudy days, UV rays can penetrate through the clouds and cause damage to your skin. Don’t make the mistake of thinking that you don’t need sunscreen on overcast days. It’s always better to be safe than sorry, so make sure you apply sunscreen every day regardless of the weather.
Don’t: Use spray sunscreen near an open flame
Spray sunscreens contain alcohol which is highly flammable. Do not use them near any open flames or sparks, including cigarettes, grills, and bonfires. Switch to lotion or stick sunscreens if you plan on being near any heat sources. Stay safe and protected.
Another common mistake when applying sunscreen is forgetting to protect your lips. The skin on your lips is sensitive and can easily become chapped or burned, leading to discomfort and potential health risks. Look for lip balms or sunscreens specifically designed for the lips and reapply them often throughout the day. Remember, prevention is always better than treatment when it comes to skin damage from the sun. By following these dos and don’ts of sunscreen application, you can ensure that you and your family are properly protected from the harmful effects of the sun’s rays.